Use the internet to do your comparison shopping when shopping for a car in Dubai. It is wise to have a category of vehicle and price range in mind before you start. Depending on how much time you wish to spend, that will determine how many different options you may take. Time 4-7 days
Banking
Banking in Dubai is completely different than the West, but if you follow these instructions your experience will be less daunting. If the bank you have chosen is one that you are not currently dealing with, then prepare to do extra work. Time: 1-5 days
- Your Own Bank: This means only one thing: you transfer your salary directly to that bank (direct deposit.) You may have a loan or credit card with that bank but that is not considered dealing with them. For this type of bank you will need to have 1 or 2 blank checks with you for the financing to be completed.
- A New Bank: In this case you will need to have determined how many months you want to finance the vehicle. You can finance the vehicle up to 6 years (or 72 months.) Bring a blank check for each month you are financing the vehicle.
You will need a recent (less than 30 days old) “Salary Certificate” from your employer. It is best to get two copies - you will need one for the bank and maybe one to register the vehicle. Be prepared to wait several days for this certificate depending on your company’s policy. Time: 1-3 days.
Documentation
You will need a copy of the front page of your passport and your residency visa page; your local driver’s license (if you are new to the UAE you will need one before you can finance a car); last 3-6 months of your bank statements (originals only - you can call the financing bank to find out the exact number); and salary certificates as mentioned above. You may be asked to present copies of your employee ID card, last 3-6 pay stubs and a no claims certificate from your insurance company (assuming you had no accidents and you have been in the UAE greater than a year.) If you have been in Dubai less than a year or had accidents expect to pay a lot for insurance. Time: 1 day
The Deal
Car dearlerships seal the deal even late into the evening and the banks also work long hours. Submit your papers and Enshallah, if God wills it, you will hear from the bank within 24 hours. Time: minutes
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Frank W. Hardy - Frank has 36 years of airline experience navigating every ocean & continent. Flying 25,000 hours in 42 years presents a rare historical ...
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